With the inauguration of the new city lord, the great purge that the residents of Chaos feared did not occur.
Including the original guards loyal to Chaotic Roaring, the new city lord Yudian did not reorganize or reduce them. Most unexpectedly, Yudian did not take the opportunity to levy heavy taxes; instead, he announced ten astonishing policies that left everyone in disbelief. People had prepared gifts and tributes, waiting for the new city lord's request to present them as a sign of loyalty.
But now, they need not bother.
The first of Lord Yudian's ten edicts: No gifts; stop tributes.
Previously, Chaotic Roaring required every citizen to make different monetary tributes each month to live in the City of Chaos. Without tribute or registration, one could only wander the streets as a beggar or thief. Even to be a beggar or thief, one needed to make irregular tributes to the guards or the four overlords, or else be caught and thrown into the mine pits to work as slaves, never seeing daylight again.
This edict of not accepting gifts or stopping tributes stunned everyone. If no tributes were collected, what would the city lord live on?
People then worried about taxes, thinking the burden would increase. Many businessmen in Chaos felt as if a heavy stone weighed on their hearts. But when they saw the second point, they were shocked. They rubbed their eyes, blinked, slapped their ears, bit their fingers, and after confirming several times, still couldn't believe it to be true.
The second of Lord Yudian's ten edicts: Three years tax-free, one percent tax for five years, five percent tax after ten years.
The merchants surrounded the guards to ask repeatedly, hardly believing the reality of tax exemption. The City of Chaos was known for the highest taxes in the land of the Seven Clans, supposedly ten times higher than the Winged Race's Sky City.
In any trade or business, apart from fixed uniform city taxes, land taxes, and poll taxes, there were various transaction taxes based on the goods, with different rates.
For transactions of magic crystals and valuable goods, the tax reached one hundred percent.
There was a joke in Chaos City: a man accidentally dropped a magic crystal on the ground, and by the time he picked it up to trade again, he couldn't make any profit. In anger, he canceled the transaction, only to end up losing half of it.
Such exorbitant tax rates also forced merchants to often trade secretly. However, this led to another problem: without protection in their transactions, merchants risked being defrauded or robbed, often resulting in total loss. Doing business in Chaos City was like risking one's life every day.
People stayed in Chaos City for many reasons.
One, all the races gathered there were outcasts, expelled or banished by their original clans, with no home to return to, or naturally thieves and robbers finding a haven in the city. There were also a few strong adventurers seeking challenges, possessing certain strengths, and not worried about money or living conditions. Of course, there were captives and slaves brought from other places, unable to escape.
Another reason for people's reluctance to leave the City of Chaos was its freedom. There were no fixed laws, and as long as one had strength and money, they could live as they wished. This was the aspiration of many; despite the high taxes, expensive living, and constant danger, nothing compared to freedom. Particularly for those who had broken the law elsewhere, they sought refuge here, where no one interfered as long as they had enough power.
Now, seeing the second edict about tax exemption, the merchants could confidently display all their goods for sale without fear of crippling taxes.
The third of Lord Yudian's ten edicts was unexpected: Those facing financial bankruptcy could apply for safety protection, and the new city lord would provide assistance according to their needs.
If one considered edicts four, five, and six, they would be even more amazed, feeling that the City of Chaos could now be called heaven.
The fourth edict: Beggars will be recognized as a profession. If they take on daily tasks like cleaning and sweeping the streets, they can earn casual wages from the new city lord and get free bedding and personal tents. In designated areas, they can collect food with a beggar's certificate.
The fifth edict: Thieves and robbers, previously without official recognition, would now be certified and classified into five levels. If skillful, they could become training instructors. If they demonstrated valor against external enemies, they would be generously rewarded and awarded the Chaos Honor Medal. However, if caught committing crimes against city residents, they would face whipping and public shaming. If captured while committing crimes outside the city, they would be treated as prisoners of war and ransomed fully by the new city lord.
People were surprised to see thieves and robbers gaining such status.
The sixth edict: Abolishing slavery in Chaos City. The new city lord would forcibly buy and redeem all slaves. From now on, all slave trades would involve only one party - the new city lord. Slaves could obtain freedom certificates, and after serving the new city lord for three months to a year, they could regain freedom. All labor slaves would receive wage compensation and release. If they wished to continue working, they would be reclassified as workers, with residency and housing provided by the city.
This edict was somewhat displeasing to slave masters, who relied on slave trade for major profits. However, with this new decree, they could still trade slaves, only selling to the new city lord. Although it might be hard to negotiate high prices, it was better than a complete ban. The major slave masters considered petitioning, but the four overlords quickly endorsed the edict. Count Clark, owning three thousand slaves, was the fastest to act, personally leading his slaves to Chaos Castle, selling them at a fair price to Lord Yudian, and then rehiring nearly half of them as casual workers for his estate.
With the four overlords taking the lead, the major slave masters, no matter how bold, dared not oppose. They complied by first reporting the number of their slaves, then sought ways to sell them at higher prices.
The seventh of the new city lord's ten edicts: The City of Chaos needs re-planning, but people living in old buildings will receive compensation after reconstruction.
The eighth edict: Families volunteering for military service against external enemies will be honored as 'Glorious Homes' and receive monthly living subsidies. Soldiers who contribute or sacrifice for the City of Chaos will receive substantial compensation and honors, and those with outstanding achievements will be knighted, irrespective of origin or race.
After reading these edicts, people felt somewhat guilty. They hadn't contributed anything but were enjoying many benefits bestowed by Lord Yudian. Concern arose about the new city lord's livelihood, hoping he wouldn't become the poorest city lord due to the tax exemption.
As people continued reading, they only sighed in happiness.
The ninth edict: Treason leads to execution, but the family or clan of the perpetrator will not be punished.
The tenth edict: Banning the glorification or excessive praise of the new city lord, prohibiting cries of 'Long live the city lord' before or after meals, and abolishing previous punishments for verbal offenses against the city lord. The new city lord discourages public kneeling and grand ceremonies in his honor. Freedom of speech is upheld in the City of Chaos, and private discussions or religious promotion, unless for treason, are not crimes.
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This tenth edict surprised everyone, showing how different Lord Yudian was from Chaotic Roaring, who enjoyed constant praise and submission. Yudian disliked all these.
People had become accustomed to saying 'Long live the city lord' before raising their glasses. Now, the explicit ban on such practice felt unfamiliar.
Upon implementation, these ten edicts caused a bit of chaos in the City of Chaos, but within a few days, people adjusted, except for some hardliners. On the streets, laborers and slaves, usually unseen, timidly started shopping. The sight of patrolling guards no longer caused panic, as the guards had transformed into a disciplined force, no longer extorting money.
It was said that on the first day, about five hundred people were punished under the new military discipline with whipping or harsher penalties. Over a hundred conspirators were executed. Lord Yudian, though generous, was ruthless in killing. His approach made it clear: either follow his lead and be comfortable, or oppose him and face execution.
Being able to defeat the Blood Wing King, severely injure the Bone General, and force Chaotic Roaring to commit suicide, Yudian spoke softly and elegantly, like a nobleman, but he was unforgiving. He would not repeat orders, and those who opposed him had their heads displayed in the city center.
People understood that with Lord Yudian, it was simple: comply and live, oppose and die.
Riding on this trend, the four major overlords also took the opportunity to purge some people, most of whom were spies of their opponents.
A small amount of bloodshed was still enough to intimidate many. Actually, no one wants to make life difficult for themselves, nor does anyone want to seek trouble or hardship. The new lord's ten policies might not align with everyone's interests, but overall, they were good. Nobody wanted to be the unfortunate one made an example of by the new lord to establish authority and set a warning.
...
Inside the chaotic castle, in the great hall.
The presidents and vice-presidents of the Dark Thieves Guild and the Dark Magic Guild, leaders of several thieves' groups, leaders of large mercenary groups in the city, the head of the commerce association, the director of the Alchemy Research Institute, the archbishop of the Dark Religion, the high priest of the Witch Religion, various slave masters, and other notable figures from the City of Chaos gathered in the lord's hall.
"Gentlemen, just speak your minds, no need to beat around the bush," Rody raised his glass and toasted with everyone, saying.
"To the Lord's health!" The vice-president of the Thieves Guild, Pengke, stood up and bowed: "Lord, let Pengke speak frankly. As you know, our profession has always been unwelcome, but only our region in the Seven Clans' territory offers us refuge. First, I wholeheartedly support the new policies of the Lord, but I'd like to inquire about the specifics. Not everyone can become a master thief, and if our members are caught by the patrols, it used to mean a dead end. Now, your decree has moved everyone, but with the fear of the Lord's authority, perhaps many dare not act... I mean, some members might struggle to survive, as our members usually rely on 'stealthy hands' for a living!"
"Actually, I haven't forbidden the use of 'stealthy hands' in the city," Rody replied with a light smile. "On the contrary, do you think it's likely to target someone familiar? Everyone guards against thieves, and many are already known faces, so no matter how skilled, it's useless. I have a way that can let your members showcase their skills daily without worrying about getting caught, and even if they do, they'll still be welcomed!"
"What is this method, Lord?" Even the president of the Thieves Guild, Jacobin, got excited, having pondered this for decades without a solution.
"The method is simple. I will turn the City of Chaos into a tourist city, attracting various races to visit. Of course, we have a traditional and unique program here, which includes theft. You can target them, but remember to return things like wallets, or else don't expect repeat visitors. The mysterious thrill of theft will arouse some races' curiosity. They might not be able to learn it, but they'll still be willing to pay you to learn some basic skills of lock-picking and thievery. Then, dress them up as thieves and have them steal from their companions, playing a 'cat-and-mouse' game with my city guards. Such exciting activities will surely bring them joy. You can operate openly, showcase your skills, and earn a substantial income. Why not? Of course, I can also arrange for cheap souvenirs for you to maintain the 'thief's tradition'. What do you think? Consider it," Rody's suggestion immediately sparked a wave of amazement.
To be a thief in broad daylight, perhaps only the strategy of this Eudian lord could achieve it.
How did he come up with this?
Letting guests become thieves to lessen the public's negative perception, enticing them to learn, bringing entertainment and income, a truly clever dual-purpose strategy!
"No need to think anymore, let's do it!" Jacobin, the president of the Dark Thieves Guild, was so thrilled he was nearly ecstatic.
"We fully support the Lord! Long live the Lord!" Vice-president Pengke couldn't help but exclaim loudly.
"Don't cheer 'long live the Lord'; it's unpleasant to hear, so old-fashioned..." Rody said, and everyone understood why the new lord disliked such cheers. It turns out that in his heart, such a cheer was rather displeasing.
"Can our bandit group do the same?" several leaders of the thieves' groups asked excitedly.
"Actually, for you, I have a similar but better idea, understand?" Rody smiled. "Why are you disliked and feared? It's a matter of identity! Once your identity changes, your robbery will not only meet no resistance but will also be welcomed!"
"My goodness, can such a wonderful thing happen? Are we dreaming?" the leaders of the thieves' groups were almost fainting.
"Of course, you are heroes! From today, you're no longer bandits, but heroes!" Rody chuckled. "Think about it, how many heroes are there in history? Who do you all know? Freely impersonate them! Regardless of the race, you can impersonate them, and the more professional you are, the better the effect!"
"Does the lord mean that we dress up as heroes to rob?" Some were still confused, asking excitedly.
"No, you're not robbing, you are heroes. How can you do such a thing? You are setting out against strong enemies, capturing them. Of course, you are elegant heroes, cultured and refined warriors. Imagine the grandeur when you shout and countless people surrender their weapons!" Rody smiled. "After you capture the guests, bring them back to the city, and I will redeem them! Of course, if the guests are willing, you should perhaps let them join you, understand? The time for you heroes to recruit soldiers has come, develop your teams freely! The joined members will willingly donate! Just let them thoroughly enjoy the thrill of a hero's charge into battle!"
"I get it, tomorrow, I'll impersonate King 'Gosar', no, first, I'll ask actors to teach us makeup..." One of the leaders slapped his thigh, regretting how he didn't think of such a simple thing.
"Idiot, don't you think King 'Gosar' lacks an opponent?" another leader laughed. "Shall we collaborate, my brother?"
"I think we should first toast to the lord. We will offer tribute proportionally, great Lord!" A one-eyed leader raised his glass excitedly toasting Rody from afar. "I have never admired anyone's wisdom before. I thought I'd only respect the physically strong in this life, but now, I have to say, the power of wisdom also makes me prostrate in admiration!"
"If you want to shine my shoes, come to sign up tomorrow morning!" Rody laughed heartily. "No need for tributes, but ensure the safety of the hostages, as they are my guests. If you want to get ransom, you should know how to proceed!"
"I say, One-Eye, you're still worried about the Lord's income, just save your worries and obey! That's what you should do!" Jacobin chuckled weirdly.
"Partner, we'll collaborate, but before that, I think we need to prepare. This is a big opportunity; I decide to invest heavily... By the way, Lord, can you buy us some regular army equipment, including warhorses, is that okay?" The one-eyed bandit leader requested.
"Of course, all trade is fine. These matters will be handled by Steward Nicholas," Rody introduced Nicholas to everyone.
"Wait a minute, One-Eye, take it slow with the matters you discuss with Steward Nicholas. We can't wait, understand? We also need the Lord to guide us. Don't fight over it... Hey, our Slave Association is more anxious, let me speak first!" The major slave masters, who initially thought there was no solution for slave trading, immediately rekindled hope upon seeing the thieves and bandits finding excellent solutions, and began clamoring anxiously.
"Speak up, everyone. You are all leaders of the city. Let's think of solutions together and make the City of Chaos better!" Rody smiled very amiably.
"Not daring to disobey, seeking guidance from the Lord..." Everyone quickly said they dare not, and at this moment, they had completely forgotten the chaos and uproar. Even those dark mages and high priests who were calm enough to maintain their sanity deeply felt the charm of this human man, Eudian. He was a natural leader. Once he spoke, people couldn't help but submit and follow him.
However, they also secretly admired him.
Being able to turn black into white, making thieves stealing openly on the streets popular, and turning the shameless robbery of bandits into heroic acts, probably only he in the entire Seven Clans' territory could think of such a thing!
After being busy for half a day, Rody handed over the follow-up of various matters to Nicholas to take full charge, and he himself went back to rest.
The Moon Night High Priestess was waiting with Midy. The Flower Fairy Icarus was still flying all over, chasing after fireflies. The Ice Snow Queen Victoria was also there. Rody wasn't surprised by her presence, but what surprised him was another familiar figure in the room. Her face veiled, she appeared mysterious, but through mental perception, Rody immediately recognized her as the 'Mountain Forest Fairy' he had encountered before.
Seeing Rody return, the Mountain Forest Fairy stood up to take her leave, very elegantly.
Queen Victoria did not retain her, smiling and waving goodbye. From her demeanor, she seemed very familiar with the Mountain Forest Fairy.
"Who is she?" Rody, now in a close relationship with her, sat next to her and asked curiously.
"My friend. Big lecher, don't tell me you don't recognize her!" Queen Victoria initially feared Rody's hands, but seeing the Moon Night High Priestess with Midy sit next to Rody, she immediately snuggled into his arms coquettishly.
"Does being a big lecher mean I must recognize her?" Rody laughed heartily.
"Brother is not a big lecher!" Of course, Midy opposed. She immediately occupied Rody's embrace, refusing to let Queen Victoria snuggle into her brother's arms. That was her throne; how could she let her occupy it? Even Sister Moon Night never fought with her for it, but this Ice Snow Queen, though a queen, lacked any grace.
"Hey, I'm talking to a child, you're young and don't understand anything!" Queen Victoria hummed proudly.
"I understand, I know all the intelligence questions brother gives me, I understand everything!" Midy thought Queen Victoria was talking about very difficult intelligence questions and immediately argued back, not to be outdone.
"There's 'Cagasianes' again, you, your eyes even during the day have 'Cagasianes', why are you always like this?" the Moon Night High Priestess quietly reproached. "Queen, there are children here, you're too much! It's okay for you to be mischievous at night, but now it's daytime, you should restrain yourself a bit, not to influence Midy and Icarus!"
"Don't you have it? Go look in the mirror!" Queen Victoria said with a teasing smile.
"What? Impossible! My eyes could never show 'Cagasianes', I, I have nothing to do with him..." As a result, the innocent Moon Night High Priestess blushed and really ran to the room to look in the mirror.
"Ha, this elf high priestess knows nothing!" Queen Victoria was extremely proud, almost about to dance.
"The very knowledgeable Ice Snow Queen, can you teach me?" Rody embraced her and pulled her closer.
"Don't touch, not now, let's talk at night, it's daytime..." As a result, Queen Victoria, now devoid of her queenly demeanor, was scared and limp. She knew his capabilities, and this guy was especially bold. Last night, when Midy didn't take her away, he couldn't help but be mischievous, almost waking her up. Just thinking about seeing Midy turn over and talk in her sleep at the most passionate moment made her feel like her soul hadn't fully returned yet.